Words, Interrupted

I’ve lost my words
like one loses a lover
neglected

love is not immortal, 
or endlessly resilient
or self-sustaining
it needs to be nurtured
pampered

of course I know this
I have known this, forever

just as I have known,
forever, that words
also need to be
cajoled 
enthusiastically serenaded
somwhat disingenously reassured
while believing it, sincerely
that they alone are 
treasured

that’s how
love survives
human
or literary ...

of course,
I have known this
forever